Goodal Keratina Anti-Aging Double Toner

the claim

The Goodal Keratina Anti-Aging Double Toner claims to make the face look bright and resilient by gently exfoliating dead skin cells from the outermost layer whilst also providing an optimal skin base. Rich in anti-oxidants and Vitamin C, wild strawberry helps achieve a bright complexion. The fast-absorbing moisture formula prevents the skin from drying up and enhances the absorption of skincare products.

the science

Keratin is a structural protein produced by cells called keratinocytes. Keratin promotes firmness by forming a protective layer to retain skin health. The objective of this toner is to reinforce, gently exfoliate and nourish this outermost layer to deliver anti-ageing effects by increasing firmness/reducing sagging and keeping skin and pores clear of dead cells and debris. This in turn delivers radiance, tightens the appearance of skin and reduces the likelihood of acne and similar conditions.

First and foremost in the formulation is Fragaria Vesca (Strawberry) Fruit Extract. This is a real powerhouse ingredient offering some excellent skin benefits. It is recommended for acne prone and irritated skin since it assists to regulate sebum and also offers antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidizing properties. It helps to increase the skin’s barrier protection abilities and therefore reduce water loss. Strawberry extract also contains ellagic acid, a melanin synthesis inhibitor, useful in the prevention of freckling and spots that might arise after UV exposure.

Both strawberry extract and Vaccinium Myrtillus (Bilberry) Extract, a close relative of the blueberry, are high in Vitamin C and flavonoids which assist to prevent and even reverse damage to cells caused by free radicals. Additionally, bilberry works as a tonic and astringent which promotes skin tightening and also displays anti-inflammatory properties making it suitable for treating sensitive, irritated and mature skin types.

Niacinamide (Vitamin B3), is a very effective skin-restoring ingredient that helps to visibly improve the appearance of enlarged pores, uneven skin tone, fine lines, dullness and a weakened skin surface.

Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Water is also known as Original Extract Apple. It is an active water derived from fruit which retains trace elements from the fresh plant. These “living waters” bring moisturizing, hydrating and nourishing properties. Original Extract Apple has been shown to stimulate growth of human keratinocytes for an anti-aging and energizing effect.

I have sung the praises of Neem Leaf Extract in reviewing the Neem Clay Mask. In summary, it provides excellent skin repair and protection capabilities. It has natural anti-aging benefits, shielding the skin against oxidative stress and ultraviolet radiation. Its antibacterial properties help to reduce acne whilst anti-inflammatory capabilities calm redness and refresh the skin.

Salix Nigra (Willow) Bark Extract is a source of natural salicylic acid (BHA). It enhances skin cell turnover by promoting exfoliation to improve skin radiance and provide a smoothing effect on fine lines and wrinkles. Furthermore, it displays antimicrobial properties so contributes to the treatment of acne and problem skin. Also displaying natural exfoliation effects as well as exhibiting moisturising properties is Saccharum Officinarum (Sugarcane) Extract, a major AHA (glycolic acid) source. Butylene Glycol too is derived from sugarcane and works by helping products with higher molecular weights to be more easily absorbed ensuring they are more effective. As a humectant, butylene glycol helps the skin retain moisture.

Curcuma Longa (Tumeric) Root Extract and Ocimum Sanctum (Holy Basil) Leaf Extract contain potent antioxidants known to protect against environmental stressors. Furthermore, studies have proven the topical application of turmeric to effectively reduce inflammation and to work in an anti-microbial capacity.

Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Fruit Extract is a natural astringent, packed with alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) to stimulate collagen and elastin synthesis and cell exfoliation, leading to an improved appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and skin brightening. It has even demonstrated significant effects on keratinization. Displaying similar properties, Acer Saccharum (Sugar Maple) Extract is a naturally derived AHA which removes bacteria and gently exfoliates dead skin cells. Citrus Limon (Lemon) Fruit Extract comprises citric acid, an effective opponent against a number of skin conditions such as acne. Citrus extracts are a rich source of Vitamin C, acting to fight free radicals.

Carica Papaya (Papaya) Fruit Extract includes a powerful enzyme called papain which contributes to skin lightening, wound healing and restoration of uneven tone through its whitening, antibacterial and exfoliation effects. Papaya is also a rich source of vitamins A, C and E, pantothenic acid, folate, magnesium and potassium. The pulp of the fruit delivers good skin hydration and nutrition.

Raspberry Seed Oil/Tocopheryl Succinate Aminopropanediol Esters also known as Vitaskin® E is used for regenerating, rehydrating and revitalizing skin by reinforcing the barrier function.

Sodium Hyaluronate can reach deep into the dermis to combine with, maintain and attract water making it a superb natural moisturiser. Corallina officinalis is an anti-oxidant rich seaweed that thrives in the deepest level of the ocean. Skin benefits include soothing, repairing and hydrating. Remaining ingredients are added for their humectant, surfactant, fragrance and preservative properties.

the scent

the cost

the availability

The Goodal brand is readily available online and from skincare boutiques. I purchased mine from RoseRoseShop.

the expiry

The toner must be used within 12 months of opening. I am not sure what its shelf life is, mine was date stamped November 2016 (approximately one year prior to purchase) so I assume at least two years.

the performance

Firstly, this is a really lovely looking product. The matte box is simple with elegant artwork representing the key active in the formula, (in this case the wild strawberry). The entire Goodal range is packaged similarly with the key ingredient highlighted assuring brand consistency.

The bottle itself is equally beautiful. The frosted finish is mostly transparent to allow visibility of the liquid inside. In this case, the toner is pastel pink (likely due to the inclusion of red colouring in the formulation). The dispensing mechanism is effective at allowing the appropriate amount (around 4 drops) to be measured at each application, without dripping. So, 10/10 for packaging, design and presentation.

As for the scent, although I am not a fan of added fragrance, this one is very subtle and fresh so was in no way irritating or unpleasant. Similarly, the addition of red colour to enhance the pink appearance of the product makes it pretty but to the detriment of the formulation. Although it doesn’t detract from performance, it does add potentially irritating and unnecessary content for aesthetics.

I usually use an acid toner for gentle exfoliation every evening (unless I’m applying a scrub or sugar mask). Recently I have been using either the Pixi Glow tonic or the byWishTrend Mandelic Acid %5 Skin Prep Water. Both give me the desired effect, a fresh radiance. I stopped applying these in order to assess the exfoliation properties of the Goodal double toner. Application was performed both in my morning and evening routines straight after cleansing for a month. I didn’t swipe this on with a cotton pad, I patted it in as it behaves and feels much like a hydrating toner. The tingle of acid was not evident although when applied over slightly broken or irritated skin, a mild tingle was observed. So it basically achieves the same effect as an acid toner due to the inclusion of some extracts that are natural alpha or beta hydroxy acids, only on a lesser, gentler scale. The glow effect was certainly not as obvious as that of the 5% glycolic or mandelic acid I was using prior, but there was definitely some brightness.

This toner has a watery consistency. The lightweight formula applies smoothly and absorbs quickly. After applying, my skin instantly feels hydrated and not sticky or oily. There is a tacky finish which dissipates after a few minutes. My skin instantly felt softer and plumper after a fast absorption. Pleasantly, that feeling was not short lived either. Since the more hydrated skin is the better it is said to receive oncoming products, I think it is fair to confirm that this product certainly enhances absorption of any combination of essence, serum, ampoule, moisturiser and oil. This double toner gives comparable hydration to the Pyunkang Yul Essence Toner. That’s pretty stiff competition so speaks volumes of this product.

Regarding the anti-ageing claims and the visible reduction of fine lines and wrinkles, I can’t say I observed these benefits after only four weeks of use. My skin texture did however feel slightly firmer or at least a little more plump after application.

the conclusion

This Goodal double toner was a pleasant surprise package, delivering on all its claims. This product leaves the skin well hydrated and thus better able to receive oncoming skincare. The immediate feeling of hydration and plumpness was evident although I did not observe long lasting anti-ageing effects after only a month of application.

I love this product. It does what it claims, delivering both gentle exfoliation and hydration. It provides an effective alternative to stronger acid toners without stripping the skin. As such, I can see it fitting nicely into existing skin care routines for almost any skin type, particularly dry, over 30 and acne prone. Personally, over the longer term, I will reintroduce an acid toner in my p.m. routine since my skin is used to a stronger exfoliation treatment and exploit the Goodal double toner’s hydration by retaining it as my morning toner.